Sony FX2 Review

The Hybrid That Finally Makes Sense

When Sony first announced the FX2, the immediate reaction from many was “why?” We already had the FX30 as the entry point and the FX3 as the workhorse. What gap was this camera supposed to fill?

But based on extensive hands-on testing from multiple professional reviewers and content creators, the FX2 appears to be carving out its lane as the perfect hybrid for creators who refuse to compromise between video excellence and photography capability.

What Makes the FX2 Different

The heart of the FX2 is that familiar 33-megapixel back-illuminated sensor we know from the A7 IV, but Sony has tuned it specifically for this camera. The second base ISO has been bumped from 3200 to 4000, and crucially, they’ve dialled back the noise reduction compared to the A7 IV. The result? Noisier images, yes, but also sharper and more defined in the shadows—something many professionals prefer for post-production flexibility.

This sensor delivers something the FX3 can’t: incredibly detailed 4K footage through 7K oversampling. Early test footage shows remarkable detail retention—the kind where you can count individual rivets or see every feather on a bird. That level of detail simply isn’t possible with the FX3’s 12-megapixel sensor, no matter how good the processing is.

The Autofocus Revolution

Multiple reviewers have praised Sony’s new AI processing unit in the FX2. As one noted: “I never had an autofocus hiccup while using this camera—it is extremely reliable.” The enhanced subject detection doesn’t just track subjects; it appears to predict their movements through advanced human pose estimation technology.

The subject detection covers humans, animals, birds, vehicles, and even insects, with automatic subject switching that works seamlessly between detection types as subjects enter and leave the frame.

That Controversial EVF

The permanently attached electronic viewfinder has been divisive in early reactions, but those who’ve used it extensively report a different story. The ability to tilt it from flush with the body to 90 degrees straight up appears to be genuinely game-changing for certain shooting scenarios.

The 3.68-million-dot OLED panel offers sharp, bright viewing with 0.7x magnification, though reviewers note that mounting wireless receivers or monitors on top significantly limits the tilting functionality.

Performance Reports

Thermal management appears to be exceptional based on testing reports. Unlike many mirrorless cameras that suffer from overheating, the FX2’s internal fan and improved heat dissipation design enable unlimited recording time across all formats. One reviewer noted that even demanding scenarios like simultaneous 4K recording and live streaming didn’t cause thermal issues.

The dynamic range testing shows impressive results, with 15+ stops in S-Log3 mode providing excellent latitude for colour grading. The dual base ISO system (800/4000) handles low-light situations well, with reviewers noting that 4000 ISO produces usable footage with controlled grain.

The Rolling Shutter Reality

Testing confirms the rolling shutter performance is identical to the A7 IV at approximately 26-27 milliseconds. This is considered slow by modern standards, and reviewers have noted visible “jello” effects during fast movements. For tripod-based work and controlled handheld shooting, this appears to be manageable, but it’s a significant consideration for fast-paced action work.

The 4K 60p Compromise

4K 60p recording requires a 1.5x Super 35 crop due to sensor readout limitations. While the resulting footage maintains excellent quality thanks to the detailed sensor, this is a hardware limitation that can’t be overcome. Those requiring uncropped 4K 60p may need to consider the FX3 instead.

Photography Capabilities

Early reports suggest the FX2 is surprisingly capable as a stills camera. The dedicated movie/still switch enables instant mode changes, and the mechanical shutter provides 1/160s flash sync with 10fps continuous shooting capability.

The unique S-Log3 photo mode appears genuinely useful for hybrid workflows, allowing perfect colour matching between stills and video footage in post-production.

Market Position

At £2,699 for the body (£450 less than the FX3), the FX2 represents interesting value positioning. It’s not trying to replace the FX3 – it’s targeting hybrid shooters who need excellent video quality combined with serious photography capabilities.

Initial Assessment

Based on available testing and reviews, the FX2 occupies a unique position in Sony’s lineup. For hybrid shooters who prioritise reliability, image quality, and versatility over absolute specifications, early indications suggest it could be an excellent choice.

The compromises – rolling shutter performance, cropped 4K 60p, permanently attached EVF – appear acceptable for its intended audience. As one reviewer put it: “It’s not revolutionary, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s the hybrid camera that finally makes sense.”

Preliminary Rating: 4/5 stars

Early indications suggest the Sony FX2 proves that sometimes the best camera isn’t the one with the most impressive specs – it’s the one that gets out of your way and lets you create.

Buy The FX2

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